Being in the moment

I always remind myself to stay in the moment.  This helps me to enjoy every day as the gift it truly is, and appreciate the mundane moments that slip by unnoticed; we don't notice them until that person or place or circumstance is gone, be it good or bad.

The only time "being in the moment" is not completely possible for me is when I'm creating.  Then, it's a dual situation -- I can be in the moment of the beauty in front of me, that has inspired me, but it has pulled on something deep within me -- a connection to a memory, a nostalgia, something from my own life and past, and then it's a time of being both past and present.  It's my way of acknowledging memories and affirming the present as well.  It gives me that window in time that I can roam free back through my life and experiences, both happy and sad, and bring them to life -- weave them into the tapestry of the present.  It's a sort of freedom, that end artwork, because sometimes the process is painful.  Even if the piece doesn't come out as I wanted, the process of the creation in and of itself is helpful.  I guess that's why there are some many Art Therapy programs around.  Creating is positive for your well-being!

I was painting the other day, and I began to smile and have recollections of about a decade ago, an occasion I hadn't thought of for a long time -- it wasn't especially important, and for whatever reason, the memories came back so vividly, it brought a smile to my face.  I could recall the sun on my face, the conversations we were having, the smell of food cooking on the grill, the laughter of the kids playing in the grass with the dog.  Such a nice rememberance, and one I would not have recalled unless I was in my "zone" while I was painting.  

I always tell my students to find a creative outlet, and to pursue it with passion.  It's one of the best things you can do for your soul ❤️